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OPTIONS Now Offers Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

ST. LOUIS - Fontbonne University has launched an online supply chain management graduate program — the first of its kind in the St. Louis area. Offered through the university’s OPTIONS program, the degree gives adult learners the tools to manage increasingly complex supply channels on a global scale.

Developed in part with industry professionals from companies such as Boeing, Chrysler, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Ingersoll Rand, and Covidien/Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, the 30-credit-hour program takes a broad view of the practical skills needed to effectively manage the supply chain from raw material sourcing through end-user delivery.

“Managers learn how to strategically align suppliers, implement lean principles, improve internal processes and create a competitive advantage for the organization,” said Linda Maurer, dean of Fontbonne’s College of Global Business & Professional Studies.

The degree is supported by a strong business foundation of accounting, business statistics, economics, and operations management courses. In addition, a specialized core focuses on supply chain management, logistics, lean principles, finance and negotiation and materials management. A capstone course requires students to design or improve an end-to-end supply chain by applying supply chain best practices to a selected business application.

“Adult learners are faced with the challenge of managing their personal lives while meeting their professional goals,” Maurer explained. “This program adds great value to a resume and provides a solid knowledge base for several industry certification exams including CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management), CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional), and CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management).”

OPTIONS program formatting is flexible to accommodate the changing schedules and shifting priorities of working professionals. Students can take one or two courses each eight-week term, and it is possible that the supply chain management degree can be completed in as little as one year. Students may also pursue a graduate certificate in supply chain management or an MBA with a concentration in supply chain management.

The College of Global Business and Professional Studies currently offers three master’s degrees that can be completed online or in a blended format with online courses: supply chain management, management and business administration. Fontbonne University has provided high-quality, values-based education for more than 80 years. In addition to its main campus in Clayton, the university has OPTIONS locations in North County, South County, Chesterfield, Downtown and a new facility in Brentwood.